A different kind of “MAN-date” in Beach Hill

Guys still looking for a New Year’s resolution can make a surefire pledge in Beach Hill. Called MAN-date, what started last winter as a regular guys’ night is still just that — a once-a-month mixer where local men get together for a pint.

“All guys are welcome,” said Steve Crane, who came up with the idea. “The main thing is it’s a bunch of men that might run into each other in the neighbourhood and nod or say hello because they’ve had a chance to meet up.”

Inspired by a friendly round of drinks at the Naval Club after a Beach Hill Neighbourhood Association meeting, Crane said MAN-date will rotate through other local spots, such as the Beach Hill Restaurant and The Corner House, a new pub opening soon at Gerrard Street and Bowmore Road.

Some 20 to 30 people usually show up, he said, adding that it’s a different mix each time and people come and go over the course of a night.

At 47, with a nine-year old son, Crane said he’s right in the middle, age-wise, of the MAN-date crowd. Younger and older guys stand to learn a lot from each other, he said, adding that it’s nice to draw a group with no particular focus other than living in and around Beach Hill.

“Otherwise, you know what happens, you do kind of get in your silo,” Crane said. “If you’re lucky, you might stay in a softball group or whatever, but you’re mostly going to see your own kind of cohort or group of guys there.

“That’s great, and I think that stuff should continue,” he said, noting MAN-date will likely evolve into doing some fundraisers, movie nights and other local activities.

“But this is one chance, and it’s pretty low-impact in terms of commitment, to mix it up.”

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